“I Am Number Four” is a suspenseful, action-packed, modern day Sci-Fi film that keeps things on an Earthly level as it addresses teenage experiences while fighting evil mutant aliens. Directed by D. J. Caruso, “I Am Number Four” is based
“I Am Number Four” is a suspenseful, action-packed, modern day Sci-Fi film that keeps things on an Earthly level as it addresses teenage experiences while fighting evil mutant aliens.
Directed by D. J. Caruso, “I Am Number Four” is based on the novel written by Pittacus Lore.
Opening scenes take place in a tropical hut at night with mosquito nets surrounding a sleeping man and adolescent boy. A noise is heard and the two are suddenly awakened. The man grabs a weapon and moves to the window as suspense leaves the audience breathless.
Instantly, the man is engulfed by a scary-looking alien and the boy quickly flees into the jungle.
A heart pounding chase takes place and the boy demonstrates his supernatural powers as he jumps off a steep edge. He appears to fly downward, and with a quick, martial-arts landing, he rolls several times to avoid death.
Alas, the boy is met head on by his wicked marauder, and succumbs to his fate.
Makeup artists take viewers to an ugly place as the Mogadorians have piranha- like teeth, gills near their noses and lumpy, misshapen heads with tattoo markings. The scary factor is in effect.
Main character, John Smith (Alex Pettyfer) is Number Four, a teenaged, human-looking alien from the planet Lorien. He must keep his true identity secret because the Mogadorians are seeking to destroy him.
The film gets better and better as it moves past a predictable ocean scene where something is looming below. John and Henri (Timothy Olyphant), his protector, are on the run and head to Paradise, Ohio, a small town where they hope to avoid the Mogadorians.
While John understands the importance of keeping a low profile, his need for socialization and a routine lead him to enroll in the local high school. The film’s portrayal of high school life is well done.
John faces challenges being the new kid in town and befriends another student who is considered an outcast, Sam (Callan McAuliffe). The two share more than being outcasts as it is later revealed that Sam’s father had a passion for alien tracking.
“I Am Number Four” also allows the kindling of a budding romance to spark between John and Sarah (Dianna Agron). Applause for Caruso as he keeps the reality of teenage romance in check with a comical scene with Sarah’s parents flashing the porch lights during John and Sarah’s first kiss.
Sweet and innocent, the romance faces an obstacle as Sarah’s ex-boyfriend gets jealous. A radical series of fight scenes and special effects unfold during a haunted hay ride scene. Ex-boyfriend and his posse try to take down John; meanwhile his supernatural powers are unleashed.
Keeping a low profile isn’t possible now that several football players are left injured while John protected himself and Sarah.
Mogadorians are on the prowl. John entrusts Sam with his identity and the two work together as Sam is convinced that his father died while trying to uncover vital alien information.
The film explodes with action, suspense and incredible special effects as a battle between Number Four, the Mogadorians and a few friends unfold. The action scenes will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Number Six (Teresa Palmer) has been tracking Number Four and the two join forces for a spectacular conquest of good versus evil. Remarkable action sequences. Thumbs up are in order for the film’s use of a female aiding John during battle.
The film is not as violent as the trailers suggests, keeping the PG-13 rating appropriate for language and some violence.
